Alienware m15x
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The m15x is optimized for just that. It comes with the option to switch between the videocard and integrated graphics, made specifically available for typing in class or in a coffee shop. Our tests show that using the integrated graphics for simple typing and internet browsing was excellent on battery life, giving the m15x 3 hours 16 minutes.
However, switching to integrated graphics limits what can be done on the laptop, so along with changing between the two, Alienware has added what they call “Stealth” mode, which throttles the CPU and GPU to ensure better battery life.
Both of these methods come with some backlash. Using integrated graphics will slow Vista down noticeably, though considering how well Vista runs with it, this isn’t a huge fault. Throttling, however, tends to slow everything down enormously, and at random times. Stealth mode doesn’t save as much battery life, taking a measly 110 minutes.
Stealth mode is also easy to forget about, and during my testing I found horrible benchmarks and games running in single digits for frames per second. The only indicator of Stealth mode is the touch-sensitive light-up button for it, which is easy to forget about in light conditions or if any of the other buttons are lit up. There’s also no way to see whether integrated graphics or the 8800M GTX are in use except for feeling for heat in the back right of the laptop, where the 8800 would be letting off steam.
Power posed a few more problems. Recharging the battery took 140 minutes, which is unacceptable. Watching a Blu-ray disc wasn't possible with only 76 minutes of battery life. These numbers will differ for all users depending on light condition, computer use and other factors.
The touch sensitive buttons above the keyboard are a nice addition, carrying a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Stealth mode switch, as well as the Command Center button and volume controls to the left. These buttons worked fine, but the volume controls did not. They are remarkably insensitive, and using them while in-game is practically useless, especially if you want to turn the volume down. It feels like it’s only sensitive on the right side of the control, to raise the volume.
Considering the m15x is desktop replacement, we were pleased to see that it wasn’t just a hulking, clunky laptop. At roughly 6 pounds, it’s not too heavy, but it certainly isn’t worth lugging around for extended periods of time. Once the battery pack is concerned and any additional peripherals need to be taken, it becomes a workload.
Having used the laptop solely as a desktop replacement for a few days, I was pleased to discover that the m15x ran Vista remarkably well. While I generally found Vista unusable because of its slow interface, that’s on other computers. Now it’s clear; Microsoft intended Vista run on powerful machines like this one.
What was upsetting was the mediocre keyboard, which refused to read multiple key presses of the same button. Typing proved difficult, and I opted to use an external board at every opportunity. The trackpad also seems to be oversensitive, trying to scroll up-down or side-side while my finger was at the center of the pad. Alienware’s glossy trackpad may not appeal to all users, so they equipped additional covers that reduce friction, a good extra.
A two megapixel webcam sits in between two microphone holes, enabling quick and seamless webcasting or online conferencing. The camera functions like any webcam, so picture quality isn’t stunning, but it’s good enough for a YouTube rant or video phone call. The microphone functions exceptionally well, with people hearing me clearly and not hearing any background noise, even from the laptop.
As simply a laptop, the m15x has proven to be very high quality, though minor adjustments can be made to give it a better, tighter experience away from gaming.
Home : Hardware : Reviews : Alienware m15x
A Non-Gaming Answer
One concern that always comes to mind when looking for a laptop with gaming capabilities is how well it functions while not gaming. Obviously, it’s secondary, but we are always on the search for a portable yet powerful gaming laptop that is reasonably acceptable for other conditions.
The m15x, from the front counter-clockwise. It has 3 USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, Firewire, Ethernet, PC Card and media card slots, and a smart bay.
The m15x is optimized for just that. It comes with the option to switch between the videocard and integrated graphics, made specifically available for typing in class or in a coffee shop. Our tests show that using the integrated graphics for simple typing and internet browsing was excellent on battery life, giving the m15x 3 hours 16 minutes.
However, switching to integrated graphics limits what can be done on the laptop, so along with changing between the two, Alienware has added what they call “Stealth” mode, which throttles the CPU and GPU to ensure better battery life.
Both of these methods come with some backlash. Using integrated graphics will slow Vista down noticeably, though considering how well Vista runs with it, this isn’t a huge fault. Throttling, however, tends to slow everything down enormously, and at random times. Stealth mode doesn’t save as much battery life, taking a measly 110 minutes.
Time measured by playing demanding games, a Blu-ray movie, standard use with Stealth mode enabled, and standard use utilizing integrated graphics.
Stealth mode is also easy to forget about, and during my testing I found horrible benchmarks and games running in single digits for frames per second. The only indicator of Stealth mode is the touch-sensitive light-up button for it, which is easy to forget about in light conditions or if any of the other buttons are lit up. There’s also no way to see whether integrated graphics or the 8800M GTX are in use except for feeling for heat in the back right of the laptop, where the 8800 would be letting off steam.
Power posed a few more problems. Recharging the battery took 140 minutes, which is unacceptable. Watching a Blu-ray disc wasn't possible with only 76 minutes of battery life. These numbers will differ for all users depending on light condition, computer use and other factors.
The bottom of the m15x, which may not get much spotlight...
The touch sensitive buttons above the keyboard are a nice addition, carrying a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Stealth mode switch, as well as the Command Center button and volume controls to the left. These buttons worked fine, but the volume controls did not. They are remarkably insensitive, and using them while in-game is practically useless, especially if you want to turn the volume down. It feels like it’s only sensitive on the right side of the control, to raise the volume.
Considering the m15x is desktop replacement, we were pleased to see that it wasn’t just a hulking, clunky laptop. At roughly 6 pounds, it’s not too heavy, but it certainly isn’t worth lugging around for extended periods of time. Once the battery pack is concerned and any additional peripherals need to be taken, it becomes a workload.
...but the insides will rile up any hardware guru.
Having used the laptop solely as a desktop replacement for a few days, I was pleased to discover that the m15x ran Vista remarkably well. While I generally found Vista unusable because of its slow interface, that’s on other computers. Now it’s clear; Microsoft intended Vista run on powerful machines like this one.
What was upsetting was the mediocre keyboard, which refused to read multiple key presses of the same button. Typing proved difficult, and I opted to use an external board at every opportunity. The trackpad also seems to be oversensitive, trying to scroll up-down or side-side while my finger was at the center of the pad. Alienware’s glossy trackpad may not appeal to all users, so they equipped additional covers that reduce friction, a good extra.
The two megapixel webcam and microphone, both of which are excellent for gaming, chatting, or whatever you can think of.
A two megapixel webcam sits in between two microphone holes, enabling quick and seamless webcasting or online conferencing. The camera functions like any webcam, so picture quality isn’t stunning, but it’s good enough for a YouTube rant or video phone call. The microphone functions exceptionally well, with people hearing me clearly and not hearing any background noise, even from the laptop.
As simply a laptop, the m15x has proven to be very high quality, though minor adjustments can be made to give it a better, tighter experience away from gaming.
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